If you only used gas or electric cooktops, you might be interested in learning about the new benchmark in stove-top cooking. Popular for their efficiency and safety, induction cooktops do not emit any heat and are incredibly durable.
How it works
The key factor in this type of cooktop is electromagnetic energy. The cooktop doesn’t use an open flame that dissipates energy; instead, it generates heat when the cookware interacts with electromagnetic elements below the glass top. An induction coil below the glass carries low current electricity and produces a magnetic field. Once the cooktop detects the cookware, the magnetic field induces an electric current which interacts with the cooking pot to produce heat.
Advantages of Using an Induction Cooktop
- Induction cooking is fast
An induction cooktop produces instant heat and cooks much quicker than other cooktops as heat is transferred directly to the pan. The cooktop heats 25-50 percent faster and distributes heat more evenly hence quicker cooking.
- Superior energy efficiency
Since induction cooktops lose less heat and cook food much faster, they are very energy-efficient. Unlike electric and gas cooktops which waste energy by heating the air around the pan, induction cooktops release heat directly into the pan hence saving energy.
- Induction cooktops are safe
Induction cooktops heat the pan only, and the other parts remain cool during cooking. This reduces the risk of burns, especially when there are children involved. The cooktop automatically turns off when you take the pan off, and the burner and pan cool off within seconds.
- Easy to clean
Traditional food tops have multiple places where food can hide, making them hard to clean. On the contrary, an induction cooktop is easy to clean as it only requires wiping with a cloth or sponge.
- Precise control
Induction cooktops have touch and swipe controls that allow for extremely accurate temperature control.
Disadvantages of Using an Induction Cooktop
- High initial cost
Since the induction technology is relatively new, the induction cooktop will cost you more than the traditional electric or gas cooktop.
- Special cookware required
Induction cooktops require magnetic cookware for the induction process to work. If you don’t have the cookware, you will have to invest in a new set.
- Power issues
The cooktop requires power to work; hence you won’t be able to cook if you have a power outage.
By now, you’ve understood what you will gain and what you will be giving up with an induction cooktop. Therefore, you can now make an informed decision. Once you’ve decided, call Nationwide Appliance Repairs to help you with the cooktop installation as well as any other appliance service and advice that you may need.
